The Makabayan coalition has announced its lineup of 10 candidates for the Senate in the upcoming 2025 elections, emphasizing their commitment to serving as “genuine advocates for the Filipino people.”
The coalition’s roster includes:
- France Castro, ACT Teachers party-list Representative and House Deputy Minority Leader
- Arlene Brosas, Gabriela Women’s Party party-list Representative and House Assistant Minority Leader
- Mody Floranda, PISTON transport group leader
- Mimi Domingo, member of Kadamay
- Jocelyn Andamo, representative from Filipino Nurses United
- Jerome Adonis, leader of Kilusang Mayo
- Liza Maza, former chairperson of the National Anti-Poverty Commission
- Teddy Casiño, former Bayan Muna party-list Representative
- Ronnel Arambulo, Vice Chairperson of Pamalakaya
- Danilo Ramos, Chairman of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas
“This slate demonstrates our steadfast commitment to nationalism, democracy, and social justice,” stated Neri Colmenares, Bayan Muna Chairman and Makabayan Co-Chairperson.
“Our candidates are not only leaders but also true advocates for the Filipino people, committed to promoting policies that uplift the marginalized and oppressed sectors of our society,” Colmenares added.
The announcement was made on National Heroes’ Day, aligning with the coalition’s mission to honor the country’s historical fight for a free, just, and democratic Philippines.
Despite previous unsuccessful attempts to secure Senate seats in the 2010, 2016, 2019, and 2022 elections, Colmenares remains optimistic. “Winning a Senate seat may be challenging, but it’s crucial to show the people that perseverance in the fight is itself a victory,” he said.
Liza Maza, who ran for Senate in 2010, emphasized the need for Makabayan to clearly communicate their consistent principles to voters. These include advocating for wage increases, job regularization, a P50,000 entry-level salary for teachers, comprehensive agrarian reform, opposition to extrajudicial killings, and resistance to constitutional amendments.
“Makabayan is a party rooted in advocacy. We want to make it clear that we will be the voice of the people, representing the true needs of our nation. With this approach, I believe we can achieve favorable results,” Maza said at a press conference.
Candidates can begin filing their certificates of candidacy for the 2025 elections in the first week of October 2024.